The printer was purchased through a grant from Arizona Public Service and the Phoenix Suns. APS and the team have partnered for years to offer STEM grants.

“If a teacher has a STEM-focused project that they have wanted to implement, but cost has been a barrier, we want them to apply for this grant,” Tina Marie Tentori, APS’s director of community affairs, said.

APS and the Suns award about $50,000 per school year in grant money.

“APS is committed to inspiring students to pursue careers in STEM, and we know that a creative project, designed and led by a passionate teacher, can be life-changing.”

Diazparra said the printer gives himself and other students a chance to make an impact on the world around them.

“Really young, maybe little, kids are doing something that might change one or many people’s lives,” he said.